San Antonio Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Bicycle accidents frequently happen when motorists drive irresponsibly and carelessly. When a bicyclist falls on the ground or strikes another vehicle in an accident, they may suffer debilitating and sometimes fatal injuries.
If you suffered injuries in a recent San Antonio bicycle accident, you should contact Ryan Orsatti Law as quickly as possible. We will aggressively advocate for your legal interests at every stage of the proceedings and pursue the financial compensation and justice you need.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a skilled San Antonio bicycle accident lawyer, please call us at (210) 525-1200 or contact us online today.
San Antonio Traumatic Brain Injury Guide
Why Choose Us?
When it comes to maximizing your compensation from a bicycle collision, you want experienced legal counsel in your corner.
Local personal injury attorney Ryan Orsatti will work with you one-on-one throughout your case, answer your questions, and set you on course to recover the compensation you deserve.
We have a strong track record of success favorably settling and litigating personal injury cases in San Antonio – including those that involve bicycle collisions. You can view our most recent client testimonials and case results at the following links.
Our office is conveniently located at 4634 De Zavala Road, San Antonio, Texas 78249.
How Much is a San Antonio Bicycle Accident Case Worth?
If you’ve suffered an injury in a bicycle accident in San Antonio, you may be wondering how much your case is worth and the compensation you may receive for your injuries.
The value of your case depends on several factors, including the seriousness of your injuries, the extent of your medical bills, and how the accident affects your ability to work and live your life.
- One of the most important factors in determining the value of your claim is your medical treatment. If you suffered severe injuries that require extensive treatment, such as surgeries, rehabilitation, or ongoing medical care, your compensation will likely be higher. Your medical bills, both past and future, are a key component of your claim.
- Lost income is another important factor. If your injuries prevent you from working or limit your ability to do your job well, you can seek compensation for lost income. In some cases, if your injuries are long-term or permanent, you may also receive compensation for loss of earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering is another major part of a bicycle accident claim or lawsuit. This refers to the physical pain and emotional distress you experience due to the accident. The more serious and life-altering your injuries, the higher this portion of compensation may be.
- You may also be entitled to compensation for property damage, such as the cost to repair or replace your bicycle and any other belongings damaged in the accident.
- In cases where the driver who caused the accident was particularly reckless or grossly negligent, you can also receive punitive damages. Compensation for these damages are awarded as a way to punish the at-fault party and prevent similar behavior in the future.
At Ryan Orsatti Law, we can gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and other losses.
Where Do Bike Accidents Frequently Occur in San Antonio?
Bicycle accidents in San Antonio often happen in specific areas where traffic is heavier, and drivers may be more careless.
While cyclists can take safety precautions, many accidents occur due to the negligence of other drivers, and certain parts of the city are more prone to these incidents.
- Downtown San Antonio is one of the most frequent locations for bicycle accidents. With its busy streets, constant flow of cars, and numerous intersections, the downtown area presents a higher risk for cyclists. The River Walk, although popular for pedestrians and cyclists, can also be dangerous when cars and bikes cross paths – particularly near street-level access points. Downtown roads like Houston Street and Commerce Street see a significant amount of vehicle traffic and are known for bicycle-related incidents.
- Another common area for bicycle accidents is along major thoroughfares such as Interstate 10 and U.S. Highway 281, especially near on- and off-ramps. These high-traffic areas are dangerous for cyclists who must navigate alongside fast-moving cars and trucks. Bicyclists often use many major streets that run parallel to these highways, including Fredericksburg Road and San Pedro Avenue, and these streets can be hazardous due to heavy traffic flow and inattentive drivers.
- Neighborhoods with mixed-use streets, like Alamo Heights and the Pearl District, also see a significant number of bicycle accidents. These areas combine residential, commercial, and recreational spaces, which can lead to drivers being less focused on cyclists as they navigate through.
- Lastly, school zones and university areas, like those near the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) and St. Mary’s University, are known locations for bicycle crashes. Drivers who are unfamiliar with the area or are rushing through school zones may fail to notice cyclists, leading to dangerous situations.
Common Types of San Antonio Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle collisions in San Antonio often happen due to the negligence of drivers who fail to properly share the road. These accidents can be severe and are usually preventable if drivers exercise more care. Below are some of the most common types of bicycle crashes that result from driver negligence.
- One of the most frequent types of accidents is the “right hook” accident. This occurs when a car makes a right turn at an intersection or driveway and cuts off a bicyclist who is traveling straight ahead. The driver often fails to check their mirrors or blind spots for cyclists, leading to a collision. This type of accident is particularly dangerous because the cyclist may have no time to stop or avoid the vehicle.
- Another common accident is the “left cross.” In this situation, a driver making a left turn at an intersection fails to notice an oncoming cyclist and turns directly into their path. The driver may be focused on looking for cars and miss the cyclist, resulting in a collision. These accidents are especially dangerous at night or in low-visibility conditions but can happen any time of day.
- Dooring accidents are also a frequent issue in San Antonio. This happens when a driver or passenger opens a car door into the path of a cyclist. Often, people don’t check their surroundings before exiting their vehicles, causing the cyclist to crash into the door. These incidents commonly occur on narrow streets or in areas with parked cars along the roadside.
- Additionally, rear-end collisions happen when a driver fails to notice a cyclist in front of them and hits them from behind. This type of accident often occurs when drivers are distracted, speeding, or following too closely. In some cases, the driver may misjudge the cyclist’s speed and distance, resulting in a crash.
- Lastly, drivers who fail to yield the right-of-way to bicyclists at intersections or crosswalks can cause serious accidents. Neglecting to respect the road rights of cyclists or not paying attention to their presence frequently leads to collisions.
Common Injuries in San Antonio Bicycle Accidents
Bicycle accidents in San Antonio can result in a wide range of injuries, some of which are serious and life-altering. When a car or other vehicle hits a cyclist, their body is vulnerable to the impact, which can lead to severe injuries that require extensive medical treatment.
- One of the most common injuries is head trauma, which includes concussions, skull fractures, and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Even if a cyclist is wearing a helmet, they can still suffer head injuries in a crash. Treatment for head trauma can range from rest and monitoring for concussions to emergency surgery and long-term rehabilitation for more severe brain injuries.
- Broken bones are another frequent outcome of bicycle accidents. Cyclists often suffer fractures in their arms, legs, wrists, or collarbones when they are thrown from their bike. These fractures may require casting, surgery to insert pins or plates, and physical therapy to regain strength and mobility.
- Spinal cord injuries are also a serious risk in bicycle accidents. Damage to the spine can result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the injury. Treatment for spinal injuries may include surgery, rehabilitation, and long-term care, especially if the person experiences paralysis.
- Road rash is another common injury, occurring when a cyclist is thrown to the ground and skids across the pavement. While road rash may seem “minor,” deep abrasions can lead to infections, scarring, and the need for skin grafts. Proper cleaning and dressing of the wounds are essential to avoid complications.
- Additionally, cyclists often suffer internal injuries, such as damage to the organs, internal bleeding, or rib fractures. These injuries may not be immediately obvious and often require emergency medical attention, including surgery or hospitalization.
- Finally, soft tissue injuries, like sprains, strains, and bruising, are common in bicycle accidents. These injuries can result in pain, swelling, and limited movement, requiring physical therapy and rest.
Fighting the Insurance Company in a San Antonio Bicycle Accident Case
If you’ve suffered an injury in a bicycle accident in San Antonio, dealing with insurance companies can be challenging. Insurance companies often try to minimize the amount of money they have to pay you. Still, an experienced San Antonio bicycle accident attorney can fight to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. At Ryan Orsatti Law, here are some ways we can fight the insurance company for you:
- Investigating the accident – We will gather all the evidence, such as police reports, witness statements, and accident scene photos, to build a strong case. This evidence can prove the driver’s negligence and show that you were not at fault.
- Negotiating with the insurance adjuster – Insurance adjusters may try to offer a quick settlement that’s much lower than what you deserve. We will negotiate with them on your behalf, making sure they account for all your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and any other damages.
- Dealing with lowball offers – If the insurance company makes a low offer, we will push back and show why you are entitled to more compensation. We’ll use the evidence we’ve gathered to prove the full extent of your injuries and losses.
- Filing a lawsuit if necessary – If the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, we can file a lawsuit and take your case to court. Sometimes, the threat of a lawsuit alone is enough to make the insurance company increase their offer.
Throughout this process, we will keep you informed and work to protect your rights so you can focus on recovering from your injuries while we handle the legal battle.
Steps to Take after a San Antonio Bicycle Accident
After being involved in a bicycle crash in San Antonio, it’s important to take certain steps, including all of the following:
- First, follow through with all of your medical care and treatment plans until you’ve fully recovered. This documentation is vital for your injury claim.
- Next, obtain a copy of the police report. This report will include important details about the accident, such as who was involved, how it happened, and the officer’s observations. It’s important to have this document when building your case.
- You should also gather as much documentation as possible. Take photos of your injuries, damaged bicycle, and the accident scene. Keep all records of your medical bills, repair costs, and any other expenses related to the accident.
- Finally, speak with a San Antonio bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible. At Ryan Orsatti Law, we can help you understand your rights and guide you through the process of filing a claim. We’ll handle all negotiations with the insurance company and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
Call an Experienced San Antonio Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
If you sustained injuries in a San Antonio bicycle collision, Ryan Orsatti Law is on your side. We can aggressively fight for your rights during settlement negotiations and litigation to maximize your total compensation award.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a knowledgeable San Antonio bicycle accident attorney, please call us at (210) 525-1200 or contact us online.
Ryan Orsatti Law – San Antonio Office
Address: 4634 De Zavala Rd
San Antonio, TX 78249
P: (210) 525-1200
Client Testimonial
“Ryan Orsatti and his team were valuable in handling my case. Mr. Orsatti worked every angle to ensure a settlement that ended in my favor. Too, he and his team respected my time and availability throughout the settlement process and required little of me. In doing so, I was able to fully focus on my recovery without the emotional drain and stress. I would not hesitate to recommend the law firm to any one person.” -Chela L. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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